Humility comes naturally to none of us. I remember once bragging about reading a book on humility…clearly I hadn’t finished it at that point. We are naturally proud people, and for those of us in the west we live in a culture that encourages self-aggrandisement. If you’re not patting yourself on the back or blowing your own horn then you probably have self-esteem issues. But the Bible actually calls us to humility. It calls us to think of others as greater than ourselves (Philippians 2:3). We usually apply this verse in very strict contexts, but it should apply too in our theology. We ought to hold our views with conviction and on the authority of Scripture, but we ought also to be humble and gracious towards others who differ with us. But if it doesn’t come naturally then we must do some very specific things to cultivate theological humility.
Perhaps one of the fundamental ways to cultivate theological humility is to read and study Scripture more than read and study systematics. As one who both went to seminary and teaches systematic theology for our Free Seminary I appreciate the importance and necessity of this discipline. I’ve read and studied systematics for years. But the truth is that many students find more pleasure in reading the words of Grudem, Geisler, Bavinck, or Calvin than they do reading God’s Word. But Scripture should be our authority and our standard. In fact the more that we read Scripture we may actually find reasons to abandon views, change views, nuance views, etc. I know that has been true with me. Often Christians hold a view because their favorite pastor, preacher, or teacher holds that view. But as you study it out for yourself you may come to disagree with their conclusions, and that’s just the way it ought to be.
In conjunction with reading more Scripture I might also recommend reading more diversely. If your book shelves look like the overstock of one or two publishing houses you may be limiting your circle of influence. It’s important to remember that all truth is God’s truth, and differing views can give you some fresh perspective. The truth is that theologians only quote those who agree with them. And sometimes if you read two different books by guys coming from the same theological camp it can feel like you’ve read the same book. Diversify your reading and find fresh expressions, fresh understandings, and fresh examples. My senior pastor always says that his favorite heretic is Peter Rollins. He reads everything Rollins publishes, not because he agrees with his theology, but because he learns how to communicate better. Humility can come as we are willing to give people a fair shake, and seek to learn from all.
Finally, I might recommend keeping before your eyes the truth that sanctification is a process. You did not come to your views overnight. Presumably you spent time studying, learning, listening, and praying to come to the conclusions that you now hold tightly. Grant that others will need to do the same. They will need help and encouragement, not condemnation and judgment. Remember that people grow and learn at different speeds and rates of development. Grant that you don’t know a person’s motives, nor abilities, nor desires.
Sparrow & Heart Soul Care 